A nurse is discussing the differences between skeletal and skin traction with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates understanding?
Clients with skin traction have more mobility than those with skeletal traction.
Clients with skin traction have more discomfort than those with skeletal traction.
Skeletal traction is more appropriate than skin traction for reducing a fracture.
Skeletal traction has less risk for infection than skin traction.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Skin traction is indeed less restrictive than skeletal traction, allowing for more mobility. It is applied using bandages or adhesive material to the skin, which can be removed or adjusted more easily than the pins or screws used in skeletal traction. This type of traction is typically used for short-term treatment before surgery or when the injury is less severe.
Choice B reason:
Discomfort levels can vary depending on the individual and the specific circumstances of the traction. However, skin traction is generally considered to be less painful than skeletal traction because it is less invasive and applies less force. Skeletal traction, which involves the insertion of pins or wires directly into the bone, is likely to cause more discomfort due to the invasive nature of the procedure.
Choice C reason:
Skeletal traction is more appropriate for reducing fractures, especially in cases where a greater force is needed to align the bones. It involves the surgical insertion of pins or wires directly into the bone, allowing for a stronger and more stable pull that is necessary for the realignment of complex fractures.
Choice D reason:
Skeletal traction carries a higher risk of infection compared to skin traction because it is more invasive. The insertion of pins or wires into the bone creates a potential entry point for bacteria, which can lead to infection at the site of insertion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Kernig's sign is associated with meningitis and is not related to the symptoms of tingling sensations that can occur after a subtotal thyroidectomy. This sign is elicited by extending the client's leg at the knee while the hip is flexed, which would not be relevant in this case.
Choice B reason:
Brudzinski's sign is another indicator of meningitis and involves involuntary flexion of the hips and knees when attempting to flex the client's neck. Similar to Kernig's sign, it is not pertinent to the postoperative symptoms of a subtotal thyroidectomy.
Choice C reason:
Chvostek's sign is a clinical sign of existing neuromuscular irritability seen in hypocalcemia, which can occur after thyroid surgery due to accidental removal or damage to the parathyroid glands. Tapping on the facial nerve triggers twitching of the facial muscles, which correlates with the tingling sensations reported by the client.
Choice D reason:
Babinski's sign is used to assess neurological function, particularly of the central nervous system, and is not related to the symptoms of hypocalcemia. It involves stroking the sole of the foot to observe the toes' movements, which would not provide information about the tingling sensations the client is experiencing.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
It is essential to dry the prosthesis socket completely before applying it to the limb to prevent any moisture-related issues, such as skin irritation or infection. Moisture can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth and can also cause the prosthesis to slip or not fit properly.
Choice B reason:
While it is important to keep the skin of the stump moisturized, applying lotion or oil immediately before putting on the prosthesis is not advised. Lotions and oils can make the skin slippery, leading to a poor fit of the prosthesis or even causing the prosthesis to slip off. It is better to apply moisturizer at a time when the prosthesis will not be worn for a while, allowing the skin to absorb the lotion fully.
Choice C reason:
The prosthesis should not be in direct contact with the residual limb without proper padding or a liner. Direct contact can lead to pressure sores, skin irritation, and discomfort. Properly fitted socks or liners should be used to cushion the limb and ensure a comfortable, secure fit.
Choice D reason:
While some skin irritation may be expected when first using a prosthesis, persistent irritation is not normal and should be addressed by a healthcare provider. The prosthesis may need to be adjusted, or there may be an issue with the fit or the materials used. Skin irritation should not be accepted as a standard part of using a prosthesis.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.